Esterillos - surf spot statistics

Esterillos in Costa Rica offers consistent surf year-round with predominantly ground swell, making it a reliable destination for surfers. The best months for optimal conditions are typically December through March. During this period, ground swell is dominant (96-100%), and good wind conditions are more frequent (58-63%), especially in December and January when winds are most favorable. Swell size remains manageable, averaging around 0.9-1.0m, providing fun, clean waves. April and November are transitional months, with slightly larger swells (1.1m) but fewer good wind days, making sessions more hit-or-miss. From May through October, swell size increases (1.3m), but the frequency of poor wind conditions rises significantly (59-67%), leading to choppier surf. September and October see the highest wind swell influence (6-8%), though ground swell remains dominant. Overall, mid to advanced surfers may still find good sessions year-round, but the dry season (December-March) delivers the most consistent and cleanest conditions with lighter winds and reliable waves.

In September, Esterillos offers consistent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.3m and a solid period of 14.4s, indicating powerful, well-spaced waves. The swell direction is predominantly from the SSW (53.6% between 1-1.5m, 17.7% between 1.5-2m) and SW (11.6% in the 1-1.5m range), delivering clean, groomed waves with good shape and energy. Larger sets occasionally reach 2-2.5m, mostly from the SSW. Wind conditions are favorable 36% of the time, typically light (below 20kph) and coming from the SSW or SW, which are offshore or cross-offshore for this break. However, winds can pick up mid-morning, with moderate SW breezes (10-20kph) occurring around 4.5% of the time. September is a reliable month for intermediate to advanced surfers, offering a mix of manageable mid-sized waves and occasional overhead sets, especially when the SSW swell fills in. Early mornings often provide the cleanest conditions before winds increase.